Creaking clunking popping over bumps steering

[Drew99GT]

I have a weird one that’s turning into a parts cannon episode…

2016 Mazda CX-5. I had struts and shocks put on at 95k. With new mounts and bearings. Afterwards it developed a light clunk over bumps. I had it checked. Everything was tight. It’s gotten significantly worse and now creaks and pops at lower speeds basically all the time, especially when turning. They warrantied the struts because everything else is tight. That didn’t change anything. Ball joints are good, control arm bushings are ok, tie rods have no play. Front sway bar links are new as well.

I’m thinking it’s lubrication issue in either the ball joints or tie rods. Or loose steering rack?

Anyone have any insight or thoughts?

Thank you! I’m about to unload my wallet and do control arms since they include the ball joints, and tie rods.

It’s now been to 3 of the best shops in town and they’re all at a loss cause they don’t wanna throw parts unnecessarily…

Thanks!

 

[spasm3]

I would be asking what brand mounts and strut bearings were used.

 

[Drew99GT]

First set was OEM, second Monroe.

It’s definitely not mounts or strut bearings at this point. Noise is exactly the same after changing them twice!

 

[crashz]

I suspect the bearing / strut mounts that were installed. Had the same happen once before and drove me nuts trying to find it. The replacements were bad, not the OE ones. Also sounds like the only thing not checked/ replaced.

 

[IndyIan]

Brake calipers? Worn bushings on the sliding pins with some play allows the caliper to rattle a bit.
Something loose, basically any suspension, steering part that has every been replaced is worth putting a wrench on if you can reach it. Loose/bent heat shield rubbing on something?
I had a slightly loose topnut on a set of quick struts, that clunked only while turning the one way.
An engine mount failing?
Sway bar bushings?
If everything important for vehicle control looks good(no cracks in a-arms, etc) and is tight, then just run it until the problem becomes more obvious. Could be a starting to fail ball joint, but you can safely run them until they get a bit of obvious play.

 

[Tempest1]

Possible issue: